The Alkamba Times

07/14/2024

Ebrahima Camara, aka Nesta, set a new personal best in the 100m at the Resisprint Meeting in Switzerland on Sunday, breaking the national record with a time of 9:98sec in 100 meters.

Congratulations Ebrima!

07/14/2024

The Gambia’s National Assembly has invited concerned citizens to a meeting at Parliament to discuss the protest demands submitted in a petition last Monday. The protesters, mainly young people, are calling for the withdrawal of the Judicial Officers Bill and the National Assembly Salaries and Pensions Bill. They argue that these bills serve the interests of lawmakers and judicial officers rather than the general public, especially during a time of economic hardship for many Gambians.

The meeting is scheduled for tomorrow, Monday, July 15, at 2 p.m., at the National Assembly.

“After due consideration of the content of the said petition by the leadership of all sides of the National Assembly, I’m directed to invite you and a representative of not more than seven (7) to a meeting with the said leadership of the National Assembly for a dialogue and discussion on the subject matter,” said a letter, signed by Momodou A. Ceesay, Clerk of National Assembly.

07/14/2024

Massive night in Berlin.

07/14/2024

On Friday, 12th July 2024, two days before the Consideration of the Women’s (amendment) Bill 2024, which seeks to repeal the ban on FGM/C, Women In Liberation and Leadership (WILL) launched a report titled ‘Female Ge***al Mutilation and/or Cutting (FGM/C): Documenting morbidity and mortality through community reflections’. A policy brief derived from the report’s findings was shared with the event’s participants. The event also featured a display of body maps, a visual art technique that was used to depict the pain of FGM/C survivors, as well as recorded testimonies of FGM/C survivors.

On Friday, 12th July 2024, two days before the Consideration of the Women’s (amendment) Bill 2024, which seeks to repeal the ban on FGM/C, Women In Liberation and Leadership (WILL) launched a report titled ‘Female Ge***al Mutilation and/or Cutting (FGM/C): Documenting morbidity and mortality thr...

07/14/2024

The Gambia’s National Assembly has invited concerned citizens to a meeting at Parliament to discuss the protest demands submitted in a petition last Monday. The protesters, mainly young people, are calling for the withdrawal of the Judicial Officers Bill and the National Assembly Salaries and Pensions Bill. They argue that these bills serve the interests of lawmakers and judicial officers rather than the general public, especially during a time of economic hardship for many Gambians.

By: Ousman Saidykhan The Gambia's National Assembly has invited concerned citizens to a meeting at Parliament to discuss the protest demands submitted in a petition last Monday. The protesters, mainly young people, are calling for the withdrawal of the Judicial Officers Bill and the National Assemb

07/14/2024

Senegal president says oil contracts will be renegotiated

DAKAR, July 13 (Reuters) - Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye said on Saturday the West African country planned to renegotiate its oil contracts.

Faye, who defeated the ruling coalition candidate in a landslide election victory in March, ordered an audit of the nation's oil, gas and mining sectors after coming into office, and vowed to renegotiate the terms of contracts with foreign operators in the country if needed.

Referring to oil deals specifically, Faye told reporters as he marked the 100th day of his presidency.: "My belief is that we could have negotiated the contracts better."

"There will be a renegotiation taking into account mutual benefits," he said, without giving further details. "Other countries in Africa and elsewhere have negotiated better to get the maximum possible for their resources."

The comments follow the announcement by Australia's Woodside Energy in June that its Sangomar oil and gas field had produced its first oil, turning Senegal into the world's newest oil producer.

The company holds an 82% participating interest in the project, while Senegal's national oil company Petrosen has an 18% stake.

It marks the start of a new era for the country, where gas production is also due to begin by the end of the year at the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) liquefied natural gas (LNG) project, operated by BP.

"The strategy is how to use oil and gas resources to develop other sectors," Faye said.

(VOA/Reuters)

07/14/2024

A Journey Across America, 31 States out of 50: Dream Coming Through!

By: Sainey Marenah, TAT Editor

As someone who immigrated from The Gambia, I've had the amazing opportunity to travel to 31 out of the 50 states in the U.S. This incredible journey has allowed me to reconnect with old friends, make new connections with strangers, and witness the diverse and fascinating ways in which people across this vast country live their lives.

Experiencing this alongside my beautiful wife, Kristina Marenah, has made the adventures even more special and meaningful.

Arizona holds a special place in my heart as one of the most memorable states I've visited. The awe-inspiring expansive desert landscape was unlike anything I had seen before, and observing driverless cars on the road was a truly surreal experience. Moreover, the profound presence of native land in Arizona added an enriching layer to my comprehension of American history and culture, further deepening my appreciation for this remarkable state.

During my recent travels, I was pleasantly surprised by the vibrant energy of Wisconsin and Nebraska. I had previously believed they were solely small farming communities, but during my visits, I discovered thriving and dynamic cities. These states shattered my preconceived notions and effectively highlighted the rich diversity within the United States.


During our journey, we had a powerful experience when we visited George Floyd's memorial site in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The visit had a profound impact on both my wife and me, leaving a lasting impression. It served as a poignant reminder of the continued fight for justice and equality, and the visit was deeply meaningful for us both.

As we journeyed through these states, I was accompanied by my wonderful wife, and the experience enriched our relationship, providing us with an abundance of cherished memories. Our shared adventures served to fortify our bond and further amplify our gratitude for the rich and varied tapestry of life in America.

We still have more to explore on our journey, and by the grace of God, we are excited about visiting the rest of the states in the U.S. Every new place we visit offers us the chance to discover new things and make meaningful connections. We can't wait to keep this adventure going together.

07/14/2024

Russian authorities on Sunday said the current U.S. administration was responsible for creating an atmosphere that provoked an attack on former U.S. President Donald Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday.

While speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Russia does not “believe that the attempt to eliminate and assassinate Trump was organized by the current authorities,” but added, “the atmosphere around candidate Trump… provoked what America is confronting today.”

"After numerous attempts to remove candidate Trump from the political arena — using first legal tools, the courts, prosecutors, attempts to politically discredit and compromise the candidate — it was obvious to all outside observers that his life was in danger," Peskov said.

Despite Moscow’s allegations, Biden, other U.S. lawmakers, and former leaders, including former President Barack Obama, condemned the attack on the Republican candidate in the 2024 elections scheduled for November.

Biden and Trump also spoke via telephone on Sunday evening, the White House says.

(Reuters/ VOA)

07/14/2024

Ceesay makes debut

Abdoulie Ceesay, one of Paide's new signings, was thrown into the fray in a 2-1 away win against Bala Town. Ceesay came off the bench, replacing Dimitri in the 57th minute. Ceesay, who scored five goals in the just concluded season with Real de Banjul, was put through by Kristal before scoring a

07/14/2024

A bill to unban female ge***al mutilation has ignited a heated public debate about the practice for the first time in Gambia. Rights groups worry the bill could inspire similar moves in some other African countries https://reut.rs/4bFqZJa by Sofia Christensen

For Mariama Jarjou, taking her two daughters to a traditional circumciser when they were 5 and 4 was an act of love - a painful but important ritual that would give them status in their village and make them eligible for marriage.

07/14/2024

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has identified 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks as the 'subject involved' in the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has identified 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks as the "subject involved" in the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, it said in a statement on Sunday.

07/14/2024

In collaboration with UNICEF Gambia and the State of Mic, Clean Earth Gambia is hosting the first-ever National Children and Youth Climate Change Conference at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center on Saturday, July 13th. This event aims to engage children and youth in climate advocacy and actively empower them to address climate change.

By Fatou Dahaba In collaboration with UNICEF Gambia and the State of Mic, Clean Earth Gambia is hosting the first-ever National Children and Youth Climate Change Conference at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center on Saturday, July 13th. This event aims to engage children and

07/14/2024

White House officials on Saturday evening said U.S President Joe Biden spoke to his predecessor and rival in the 2024 elections, former president Donald Trump. The call happened after an assassination attempt on the Republican candidate during an outdoor rally in Pennsylvania.
Learn more below.
Source: VOA News

07/14/2024

After an assassination attempt at his Pennsylvania rally, Trump speaks.

07/14/2024

GRAPHIC WARNING:
Video shows a man who fired a shot at the Trump Rally found dead on the rooftop opposite the spot where Trump was speaking.

07/13/2024

President Biden on Trump Rally Shooting:

“ I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trump’s rally in Pennsylvania.

I’m grateful to hear that he’s safe and doing well. I’m praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.

Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. There’s no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.”

07/13/2024

Donald Trump Survives Assassination Attempt

07/13/2024

Fire Engulf Hamza Barracks

There was a fire incident at Hamza Barracks in Banjul. Military personnel and their families lost their belongings in the blaze. The affected families have been temporarily relocated for interim assistance at the Friendship Hostel in Bakau, and authorities are addressing the situation.

07/13/2024

25 minutes of distress

By: Alieu Newton

In my five years as a General Practitioner and four years as an Anesthesiologist, I have witnessed and participated in hundreds of CPRs on patients. However, the one I took part in five days ago was entirely different. It was completely different because the patient in front of me was my FATHER. My own father.
Some might ask why I participated in such a CPR when I was emotionally involved. But rest assured, if you ask this question, it's because you might not have worked as a healthcare professional in The Gambia.
At 1 PM, the old man's condition didn't look good. He needed higher-level management, either in an HDU or an ICU bed for a multidisciplinary approach. My efforts were unsuccessful because there is only one quasi-functional ICU in Jollof with a small bed capacity. I was unable to secure him a bed, knowing that with his condition, he wouldn't make it the next 24 hours without intervention.
I was desperate. I made multiple calls, but there were no better options. As an MD, I totally knew what he was feeling. I sat on his wrecked hospital bed trying to comfort him while he whispered to me, "Why can't you give me more medications or bring your machine to check my body? I have generalized malaise." His pleas made me visit the bathroom very often just to wash my face to avoid my brothers noticing my tears. I wished I wasn't a doctor at that moment because I would have preferred not knowing what was happening, just like any close relative who was with him.
A few hours after being unable to secure him an ICU bed, he had a cardiac arrest. We initiated the coding protocol, and after a few minutes, we had a ROSC (Return of Spontaneous Circulation). I requested the medication that might prevent him from having a second arrest, but it wasn't available. I requested the second option to that medication, but it wasn't available either. Then, as expected, a second wave of arrest came with a cardiac rhythm compatible with Ventricular Fibrillation. But guess what? No defibrillator was within reachable distance. This isn't a movie but reality. I didn't even intend to intubate because there was no effective device to connect him to.
He succumbed to his condition, secondary to a failed healthcare system that has been in existence since independence. We could have done more for him, but he was unfortunate to find himself in a country that prioritizes everything except the health of its residents.
As an es**rt, I didn't get the privilege of being told that they did everything possible to help rescue my dad because I was part of those doing the impossible. I'm not angry at the doctors or nurses because they feel the same as I do. They happen to work for a failed health system.

May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him the highest of paradise.

"Dohali yallah" they concluded

07/13/2024

Jagne guides Medina FC to a FF Cup triumph

Medina FC edged TMT FC 3-2 on penalties to be crowned champions of the FF Cup. This is the first time a second-division team has won the Presitigous FF Cup. Serekunda-based team Blackpool came close but lost to Sait Matty. Following a 0–0 draw, TMT failed to convert two of their spot kicks.

07/13/2024

You can watch the final take with MK on the link below. It features Women's Rights Activist Fatou Baldeh and Samba Baldeh, a Wisconsin State Assembly representative seeking a democratic ticket for State Senate District 16.

07/13/2024

Traore may have strong basis for his allegations against the two ECOWAS nations & this is not unexpected.

Incidentally, leaders of both countries were absent from the July 7 Abuja ECOWAS summit along with their Togo colleague. The three are facing allegations of plotting tenure elongation in violation of ECOWAS protocols.
ECOWAS has serious house cleaning to do to deal with internal 5th columnists & to regain its tainted credibility.

This is also a warning to AES countries. They need regional support & cohesion to fight external aggression. Also, Paris & its allies must not allow the festering anti-Western sentiments in W/Africa to boil over. The citizens are watching!

Burkina Faso Accuses France, Benin and Ivory Coast of Destabilization | Firstpost Africa Burkina Faso's military leader Ibrahim Traore has accused France of ...

07/13/2024

Coming up:
Remember to tune in to the Final Take with MK, which will air live on The Alkamba Times page at 6 pm GMT and 2 pm Eastern time.

07/12/2024

Gambian DJ Fire Man is expected to make waves in Europe with electrifying performances. This is his first tour since the global pandemic and the second in his 25-year career.

The DJ Fireman tour, which travels from the Netherlands to Berlin, is a significant milestone for the DJ, who has captivated audiences with his unique sound and dynamic stage presence.

By: Alieu Ceesay Gambian DJ Fire Man is expected to make waves in Europe with electrifying performances. This is his first tour since the global pandemic and the second in his 25-year career. The DJ Fireman tour, which travels from the Netherlands to Berlin, is a significant milestone for the DJ,

07/12/2024

This is an Impeachable Offense!

By: Madi Jobarteh

This press release indeed exposes the gross misconduct of the President in total violation of the Constitution for which he must be held severely accountable. It shows the unprofessionalism and inefficiency of the Office of the President in taking pertinent decisions for the country!

How could the President appoint a person as Minister without knowing the status of that person first vis-à-vis the requirements of the Constitution? Section 71(2) is glaringly explicit that a person with dual citizenship cannot be a minister. Yet for months, two individuals with dual citizenship are sitting at the highest level of our State and being exposed to vital national information!

What if these two individuals are spies or enemies of the Gambia? By being in the Cabinet the President has allowed them to access national security and economic information among other critical matters! During their tenure these two former ministers handled public resources for which they are not qualified to do so.

By appointing these two people to the Cabinet, President Barrow has threatened the security of the nation. He has exposed the life of the country to risks. That’s unacceptable.

The President has the Minister of Justice. He has a bunch political advisors. He has a Chief of Staff. He has a Minister of Public Service. Therefore the President has enough resources to do due diligence for him so he can make the right decision. By appointing these two individuals as ministers, the President has exposed the incompetence of his team for which they must resign or be sacked.

The National Assembly must take action on the President because not only has he violated the Constitution, but he has also threatened national interest and demonstrated his incompetence to lead this nation. This action requires impeachment as per Section 67!

The continuous and consistent pattern of violations of the Constitution by this President must be put to a stop now. If the National Assembly is to justify their outlandish salaries and benefits then let them demonstrate that by defending the Constitution by disciplining this lawless President.

For The Gambia 🇬🇲 Our Homeland

07/12/2024

State House Press Release:

Cabinet Resignation and Relieve of Duties

State House, Banjul, 12th July 2024:
His Excellency Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of The Gambia, acting under Section 71(4)(c), today, 12 July 2024, accepted the resignation of Honourable Haddy Jatou Sey, Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, who resigned for personal reasons.

His Excellency the President thanked her for her service and wished her all the best in her future endeavours.

In a related development, the President, acting under Section 71(4)(b) of the Constitution, relieved the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Ousman Bah, of his duties.

In the meantime, Professor Pierre Gomez, the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Technology, will oversee the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education. Dr Ismaila Ceesay, the Minister of Information, will oversee the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy until further notice.

07/12/2024

Kenya's police chief Japhet Koome resigned on Friday following intense criticism of how officers conducted themselves during a series of anti-government protests last month which resulted in the death of 39 people.

President William Ruto's office announced Koome's resignation a day after the East African leader fired nearly his entire cabinet, bowing to the demands of protesters.

Koome's deputy Douglas Kanja has been made acting police chief, Ruto’s office said.

(VOA/Reuters)

07/12/2024

Mariama Gina Bass Bittaye signs endorsement deal with Qcell, captured in photos.
Congratulations Star!

📷 Qcell

07/12/2024

Historical

Medina FC was crowned the GFF FA Cup winners after beating TMT 3-2 on penalties. Coach Alieu Jagne was named the Coach of the Tournament.

07/12/2024

This week's guests on The Final Take with MK!